I have been seeing lots of mini bags around and they really are growing on me despite the fact that they are not as immediately practical as a tote or big shoulder bag. But, I think they are practical in their own way, forcing you to fit only a few, well considered, essential items with less stuffing of random items and probably resulting in less sore shoulders and back problems. So here they are, eight of the best...

Reece Hudson mini Siren bag US$495This gorgeous mini bag comes in five colours but I would find it very hard to choose between the Green Leather, the Nicotine Python and Rose Taupe Python. All Reece Hudson bags are made in Italy but designed in New York. It features an adjustable strap (approx. 22" drop) with a cotton lined interior and patch pocket. It's approx. 4.5"x 5.5"x 2".

Velvetine Jeff Moka €250Like the Reece Hudson above, this design is a little more unusual in that it isn't the longer rectangle, envelope shape that seems to be popular in mini bags. It's got a chain detail closure which adds a bit of difference and comes in this warm, go-with-everything cappuccino colour.

Lauren Merkin mini Cece US$295The mini Cece is a cross body bag, featuring a chain strap, an exterior zip pocket and interior patch pocket. It's 8"x6.5"x2.5" and the strap has a drop of 22". And, it comes in ten great colours for you to deliberate over.

Botkier Valentina Mini US$195This gorgeous Italian cowhide mini bag comes with a detachable chain strap (that has a leather section that sits over the shoulder) and a slit pocket under the external flap. It comes in six colour ways and is shown here in wine.

KARA double date bag US$380I love this KARA mini-bag because of its ability to expand, solving the potential problem of deliberating over whether a mini bag is going to fit everything you need! Made from pebble leather with a fabric lining, the main compartment is collapsable and there are two side pockets. It is also available in maroon and lavender but the camel is currently sold out. Dimensions are 6.5"x8"x5" when expanded.

Time's Arrow mini Trilogy Crossbody US$495This is a mini bag with a very modern feel. It's available in three colours - paprika (pictured), black and Sherwood croc. There are three top zip compartments and a front flap pocket with a magnetic closure so you will not run out of places to put things and nor will being full or flat spoil the look of the bag. With a card slot in the last compartment and adjustable cross body strap you know they have thought of everything in the design.